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Functions of consciousness: conceptual clarification.
Takuya Niikawa, Katsunori Miyahara1, Hiro Taiyo Hamada2
1Center for Human Nature, Artificial Intelligence, and Neuroscience (CHAIN), Hokkaido University, Kita 12 Nishi 7, Kita-ku, Sapporo, Hokkaido, 060-0812, Japan.
Neuroscience of Consciousness
|March 31, 2022
Summary
This paper introduces a new framework to understand consciousness theories. It clarifies how different theories of consciousness functions relate, are assessed, and potentially integrated.
Area of Science:
- Cognitive Science
- Neuroscience
- Philosophy of Mind
Background:
- Numerous theories exist regarding the functions of consciousness.
- The relationships, assessment, and integration of these theories remain unclear.
Purpose of the Study:
- To propose a conceptual framework for clarifying theories on the functions of consciousness.
- To aid in understanding how diverse theories relate and can be assessed.
Main Methods:
- Developed a three-dimensional conceptual framework: (i) target, (ii) explanatory order, and (iii) necessity/sufficiency.
- Applied the framework to analyze existing scientific and philosophical theories of consciousness functions.
Main Results:
- The framework clarifies theories based on the type of consciousness targeted.
- It differentiates theories by their explanatory relationship between consciousness and function.
- It distinguishes theories by the necessity/sufficiency relation proposed between consciousness and function.
Conclusions:
- The proposed framework offers a structured approach to understanding and comparing theories of consciousness functions.
- This conceptual tool facilitates clearer analysis and potential integration of diverse perspectives on consciousness.
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